#040 Titanium Dioxide: A Hidden Danger in Consumer Products?

Could your morning beauty routine contain a substance linked to DNA damage and cancer? What about that colorful gum you chew? Unbeknownst to many consumers, a common compound found in everywhere from lipstick to candy may have a dark side that scientists are racing to uncover.

Titanium Dioxide's Jekyll and Hyde Nature

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is seemingly everywhere these days. It's found in a huge range of consumer products including food, cosmetics, sunscreens, paints, and more. This ubiquitous compound is extremely useful for its bright white pigment and ability to reflect UV light. However, there is growing controversy around the safety of titanium dioxide, especially when it's present as nanoparticles.

Titanium dioxide has long been considered a safe, useful compound. The bright white powder features in an untold number of products we interact with daily, thanks to properties that make it an efficient colorant, UV blocker, and texturizer.

But emerging research indicates titanium dioxide may have a Split personality - with newfound risks in nano particulate form that have some re-thinking its presence across grocery store aisles and bathroom cabinets worldwide.

What is Titanium Dioxide and Why is it Used?

Titanium dioxide is a white powder that has been used for century in an array of applications. It has a variety of useful properties:

• Bright white pigment

• Reflects and scatters UV light

• High opacity and hiding power

• Chemically inert

• Cost-effective

In consumer products, it serves several purposes:

• Food - Used as a coloring agent to create a white appearance or opaque effect in products like candies, icings, and powdered drink mixes. Also sometimes used to add texture.

• Cosmetics - The white pigment helps creams, lotions, ointments, and powders appear brighter and smoother on skin. The light reflecting properties also protect skin from UV damage.

• Sunscreen - The UV light scattering ability helps shield skin from the sun. Often used in "mineral sunscreens."

• Paint - Provides hiding power, durability, and white tinting for paints and coatings. Also used in paper, plastics, textiles, and more.